Sash Window Repair
Sash windows add a touch of luxury to any house. They can become drafty and difficult to repair as they get older. Repairs to windows with sash can be a great option for improving functionality and maintaining the original beauty.
The first step in fixing windows with sash is to remove "pocket covers". These are tiny pieces of wood that are placed in the lower part of the frame to allow access to the weights.
Sashes that have been damaged
If your sash window is damaged or leaks, you will need to do more than patch the surface. You'll save money by performing a more thorough repair, especially if your home is old and has poor insulation. Here are sash window repairs with sash windows and the best way to fix them:
Problems with Sticking
It can be difficult to close or open the window if the sash does not fit snugly into the frame. This could result in rattling sounds and let drafts in your home.
To resolve this, use a utility knife to score the paint line on the inner side of the sash, then remove it. Be careful not to scratch the wood. After that, you'll need apply a sash oil that will allow it to move more easily.
Broken Sash Cords
In some instances, older double-hung sashes are made of metal or cotton cords to support the weights that lift and lower the sashes. As time passes, the cords can break, making it difficult to lift the sash and keep it up. Follow these steps to repair it:
Pull the sash to the right and remove it from the frame. Cut the cord in the middle of the sash, and then remove any nails that are sticking out from the end. Remove the nail using needle-nose pliers, then insert it back into the side channel. Insert the knot of the the hole and secure it with the nail set.
Install the beads for staff and put them back in the sash. Be sure to leave enough slack in the cords to ensure the proper operation. Reinstall the balances and counterweights. Decorators caulk is a great way to prevent draughts. Apply a small amount between the staff bead box.
After the frame and sash are completely repaired, you can bed them in glazing putty. Glazing putty is made using chalk and linseed. Mix with enough chalk to make the putty usable and not stick to your fingers. Let the putty dry completely before installing the sash again and painting the frame.
Broken sash cords
Old double-hung (two sashes) windows are made of cotton cords or metal chains attached to the counterweights to help keep the sashes balanced in the window jamb. Over time, the cords could break and block the sashes from opening and close. This makes it difficult to raise the window or lower it. The cords of the sash can be replaced in less than hours.
Remove the staff bead that divides the upper and lower sashes. A nail is typically driven through the knot, and then into the side of the sash casing to secure the bead, however, you should be in a position to remove it by using needle-nose pliers. Remove any rusty nails from the stop beads, and then clean off any paint, caulk and old cord residue that has accumulated around the sash groove.
To open the window, pull one of the cords running through the sash. Once you've gotten as far as you can make a mark on the cord in pencil and cut it out using a utility knife. After you've finished, make sure that the new cord is in alignment with the groove on the sash. Also, tie it to the sash using a knot.
If the sash is too high to move it, you can use sharp side cutters to cut and eliminate the old cords. Once the sash is free, you'll need to remove the access panel in the sash channel to expose the pockets of sash weights, counterweights, as well as the pulley system. If the window is painted, you might need to score the seams using the hammer and chisel in order to remove the access panel without damaging the paint.
After you have removed the access panel you will see two cast-iron sashweights inside each pocket. Remove the weights from the back and front and connect the sash cords to the weights using a self tightening knot. Once you have tied the new cords, reconnect the sashweights and set the system to work properly.
Drafts
Sash windows add a touch of historical charm to older homes, but they also pose issues with their maintenance. They are often difficult or impossible to close and open with a smooth, quiet operation. They can also be rattled by breeze, and allowing drafts through. These issues could be caused by swollen or painted wood, or rotted sash cords. There are a number of simple and cost-effective solutions to correct these issues and keep your sash window operating correctly.
Disassembling an old sash is the initial step to repair it. Remove the sash, as well as the frame, and make sure that all components are in good shape. Then, sand the wood to enhance its appearance and stop drafts. A small amount of silicone spray or wax can make the sash move more easily. If the sash remains sticking, use a utility knife to cut through any paint layers and free it. A new set of tilt-pins can make the window more efficient.
Weights are passed over pulleys in order to balance the weight of windows with sash. These weights, usually made of cast iron are accessible via an access panel or pocket located on the inner box lining. To stop the weights from falling down, the dividing strip is suspended within the frame to ensure that they don't collide.
It isn't easy to get these weights out, because the sash on top can be sealed with paint and then nailed into place. However, if you're cautious and patient you can easily remove the sash with a pair of bar clamps, reversed so that they break apart, allowing it out of the groove in the meeting rail. It may take a bit of tapping and jiggling to pull it out but once you've got it out, be sure to examine the sash cord and replace it with a new rope (not cotton) If you need to.
While you're at it you could also replace the balance of the sash to make it easier to open and close. It's much easier than you think to replace the balance of a double-hung window. You can do it yourself if have the right tools and a replacement kit.
Rotten sill
Over time, old timbers get worse and even the most well-maintained windows with sash can begin to begin to show signs of rot. If the rot is only limited to the sill, it could be possible to repair the window. If the rot has gotten into the frame and into the interior and has damaged structural elements it could be time to replace the window.
It is important to replace a damaged window sill before it causes further damage to the window. The first step is to eliminate the old sill plate and studs. If the studs are load-bearing you may have to build temporary supports. After taking the old sill off, clean off any paint remaining from the sill plate. Once the sill is clean then replace it with a brand new board and nail it to the studs.
A rotten sill can be ugly and cause future costly repairs. It could, for instance cause the sash which is difficult to notice, to shift. This could lead to cracks, bows or damaged glass pane. In addition, a rotten sill could allow water to get into the wall which could lead to mold and other problems.
Replacing a damaged or rotting sill is not as hard as it may sound. To stop rot, you must keep the window free of dirt and debris. You should also apply a sealant that is protective to the window frames to protect them from moisture. In addition, you must use a dehumidifier to control moisture levels within your home, which will stop wooden sashes from swelling or sagging.
Sash windows are often afflicted by sashes that have become stuck. This issue can be fixed by applying a small amount wax or silicone to the tracks of your windows. This will allow them to slide along more easily. If the sashes are stuck because of paint buildup, you can make use of a utility knife cut through the layers of paint to release the sashes.
Reinstalling the parting beads is another way to get rid of a stuck sash. If the sash still sticks you can try draught proofing it. This is done by placing strips of rubber between the frame and sash which decreases air flow and improves the acoustic performance of the window.